The crew of the San Diego-based USS Peleliu, which is currently deployed at sea, is planning a special memorial to the victims of the Sandy Hook Elementary School massacre. Sailors and Marines will take part in a "field day" on February 16 as a way to show support for the families of those killed.
Sailors and Marines who participate in the field day will do 26 different exercises - one for each of the Sandy Hook victims.
According to a Navy news release, Cryptologic Technician (Collection) 2nd Class Kimberly Henry came up with the idea for the field day. Henry plans to send a care package with video and photos of the event to the families, along with the U.S. flag that flew above the USS Peleliu on January 14.
USS Peleliu Commanding Officer Capt. John D. Deehr said of the field day memorial:
"The Sailors of Peleliu came up with a wonderful idea to show support for the families of the victims of the Newtown shooting. We hope this package and our memorial field day express the sympathy that we feel, and we want the families to know that our hearts are with them during this tremendously difficult time."
The Peleliu is currently deployed in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility.
